Six Decades of Gritty Rebellion: Defying the Aging Curve

Rock bands rarely stay creative for more than 60 years. Somehow, The Rolling Stones still sound fresh without losing the style that made them famous. Can a band this far into its career still surprise listeners? This early look at Foreign Tongues, published ahead of its July 10 release, suggests the band still has plenty left to offer.

Following the success of Hackney Diamonds in 2023, The Rolling Stones return with their 25th studio album and another collaboration with producer Andrew Watt. Many fans thought Hackney Diamonds would be the band's final statement after longtime drummer Charlie Watts died in 2021. Judging by Foreign Tongues, the band is not ready to slow down just yet. 

Back to the Blues: Dissecting the Opening Sonic Salvos

Right from the start, "Rough And Twisted" reconnects with the band's blues roots. Honky-tonk piano, stomping rhythms, and the guitar chemistry between Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood make the song feel both classic and fresh. Instead of chasing trends, the band refreshes a familiar formula with subtle modern production.

Soon afterward, lead single "In The Stars" slows the pace. Its verses closely resemble the band's 2012 track "Doom And Gloom," yet the song still works. Strong guitar work and layered backing vocals give the chorus plenty of lift.

Meanwhile, current single "Jealous Lover" leans into the Stones' early-1980s sound. Mick Jagger delivers an energetic falsetto that keeps the track lively. Although it occasionally drifts into sentimental territory, it still leaves a lasting impression.

Curating Rock Royalty: Evaluating the Album's A-List Guest List

One of the album's biggest surprises is "Mr. Charm." Who would have expected Jagger to try a rap-inspired vocal? It sounds risky at first, but a huge chorus and one of Wood's best guitar solos make it pay off. 

Several familiar faces also appear across the album. Steve Winwood contributes, while Robert Smith from The Cure plays guitar on "Divine Intervention" before adding synthesizers and backing vocals to "Never Wanna Lose You." Paul McCartney also plays bass on the reflective "Covered In You," adding warmth to its understated melody.

Charlie's influence is never far away. Drummer Steve Jordan honors Watts' restrained style, especially on the punk-inspired "Hit Me In The Head." Later, Richards takes the lead on the ballad "Some Of Us," where his weathered voice fits the song perfectly. 

The Verdict: A Sincere, Political, and Enduring 4-Star Triumph

The final stretch offers several more highlights. "Side Effects" compares romance with addiction while quietly reflecting on the band's turbulent past. "Back In Your Life" delivers the album's emotional ballad, while "Ringing Hollow" draws on country influences from Gram Parsons and pairs them with thoughtful observations about modern America. 

Still, not everything lands perfectly. At 14 tracks, the album occasionally feels longer than it needs to be. Two cover songs close the record, although neither seems essential. The band's take on You Know I'm No Good by Amy Winehouse suits Jagger's expressive vocals, while Beautiful Delilah by Chuck Berry offers a relaxed acoustic farewell. 

In the end, Foreign Tongues earns 4 out of 5 stars. Reinvention has never been the band's greatest strength, and it doesn't need to be. What keeps The Rolling Stones going after more than six decades is their confidence, timeless songwriting, and undeniable chemistry. Few bands can still sound this alive so deep into their career.